Eden Garden, the latest entertainment hub in the capital, was officially launched on Thursday on the same site where thousands of villagers were evicted over a decade ago.

Developed on two hectares, Eden Garden has 27 merchants, including local brands Legend Cinema and Epic nightclub. International brands include Koi, Starbucks and the Thai restaurant chain S&P, said Faz Ghotbi, its director.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, he said the centre has 10,000 square metres of parking space and a 5000-square-metre garden.

“There is no other land like it in the centre of Phnom Penh and no other space focuses on greenery and semi-open areas. Eden will definitely be successful because the design has come from the heart and includes elements that touch everyone,” he said.

Of the 27 merchants, 45 percent are restauranteurs and 15 percent retailers.

Faz said he will collaborate with the Ministry of Tourism to register Eden as a Phnom Penh landmark to attract more tourists and local patrons.